A babble of voices in almost every European language could be heard at the edge of the triangular track as Holstein’s 2019 crop of stallions was presented at the pavement inspection held as part of the 51st Approval and Elite Riding Horse Auction.
Sixty-six contenders are vying for the coveted ‘Kör’ designation and have successfully completed the first task with the inspection on hard ground and in the walking rings. “We have seen some very good horses that knew how to present themselves,” says breeding director Stephan Haarhoff, describing his impression. “Overall, the crop presents itself as typical, correct and displaying the characteristic Holsteiner knee action.” Genetically, the crop is broadly diversified, although the lot is once again strongly influenced by the Cor de la Bryère line: six stallions alone have Casall as their sire. His sons Cascadello I, Chopin and Cieran, as well as his grandsons Charleston, Clarksville and Christer, are also sending their offspring. Cor de la Bryère is also represented by three sons of Cornet Obolensky. Furthermore, Diamant de Semilly is present with his sons and grandsons, ensuring the desired diversity of bloodlines with Diarado, Dominator Z and Denver. The association stallion Uriko is sending three sons to the Holstenhallen this year, whilst his son United Way is also well represented with three stallions in his first crop of licensing candidates. Outcross stallions such as Emerald van het Ruytershof, I’m Special de Muze and Manchester van’t Paradijs provide further contenders, all of whom could offer interesting bloodline alternatives. As is customary in Holstein, the offspring of sires with foreign bloodlines also come from purebred Holstein dam lines.
The event on Friday (29 October) begins with the much-anticipated free jumping and free walking of the stallions at 8.30 am. From 6.00 pm, the candidates for the Elite Riding Horse Auction will be presented. Roland Metz will be happy to answer any questions about the auction and, of course, the horses themselves (telephone: +49 171 4364 651, email: rmetz@holsteiner-verband.de). Friday evening will be rounded off with the breeders’ party in Hall 5. The entire event will be streamed live on ClipMyHorse.TV. Remaining tickets are available at the box office; the 3G rule applies to all spectators.
Photo: Janne Bugtrup
